Other Pacific Islands Show NZ The Way With Emissions

Following on from yesterday's blog article we have some more from 'Eco' a publication of the CAN groups attending the Bonn Climate negotiations, August 2009. As you can see not only are other Pacific Island nations stepping-up to the plate but they are also setting an example to their neighbours.

(http://www.signon.org.nz/sites/default/files/08/12/Eco2_Bonn-III_can-talk.pdf)

Leading From Below

"As we now know, New Zealand’s CC Issues Minister has put forward an unacceptably weak target (10–20% on 1990 levels, hedged with conditions). To add insult to injury, as Ludwig noted yesterday, he has had the gall to challenge Pacific Island countries to show themselves willing to reduce their own emissions – which amount to around 0.03% of the global total. New Zealand’s stand at 0.21% (even without allowing for the sheep).

Fortunately the Pacific Islands have done more than show themselves willing, they are already taking action. Here are a few examples, an incomplete list, that the “Hon.” Nick Smith might like to consider:

• The Fiji Electricity Authority aims to generate at least 90% of its energy needs from renewables by 2011.

• In July 2008, the Tongan government announced a major renewables campaign with a target of having 50% of its electricity from renewables within three years.

• Samoa’s adopted national energy policy has a goal of increasing the contribution of RE for energy services and supply by 20% by year 2030, using sources including wind and hydro.

• The Power Utility at Vanuatu (UNELCO) has set itself a goal of generating 33% of its electricity from renewables by 2013. As of April 2008, UNELCO was using coco-fuel for power generation at 25% mix for 200 liters per hour. UNELCO is also installing wind power capacity of 2.75 MW that would in 2010 contribute to 6% of the total electricity generation.

• Nauru has set itself a target of 50% renewable energy by 2015 as part of a national strategic plan on energy.

• Tuvalu aims to be a 100% renewables country by 2020.

These countries have low responsibility and limited capability, but are doing all they can to secure their survival. Developed countries might follow their example, and consider targets that correspond with their responsibility and capacity – more than 40% by 2020 would be in line with the science."